Moose can’t wait to take his turn in this alphabet book, first attempting to butt in on the letter D. Zebra, who is refereeing the alphabet showcase, orders him off the page. But there Moose is again, stumbling into Elephant on the E page, and completely covering the text on the page that says “H is for Hat” (the text must be inferred by the visual clue—what you can see of the hat behind gangly, round-eyed Moose, who is all eagerness). Finally, it’s time for the letter M and Moose’s big moment: “M is for Mouse.” “What? Wait! No! That was supposed to be me!” Moose’s ensuing tantrum obliterates the offerings for some letters altogether. Finally the tantrum dissolves into sniffles, and then full-fledged tears, until Zebra saves the day: “Z is for Zebra’s friend, Moose.” A clever, outrageously funny alphabet book features a narrative by Kelly Bingham that includes many dialogue bubbles conveying Moose and Zebra’s ongoing exchange as well as comments from others who are witness to the ever-increasing spectacle. And Paul O. Zelinksy’s illustrations are a masterful riot, incorporating humor into small details as well as big moments. (Ages 3–7)

Zebra is absolutely certain he'll be able to direct everyone to appear on the correct page, at the appropriate time, without any mishaps, unnecessary drama, or hurt feelings. It's an ABC book, for goodness' sake. How difficult can it be? Oh, dear. Zebra forgot about Moose.